common problems in Sebrings?

sickchick

05-16-2005, 06:16 PM

I'm trying to decide which warranty to buy, but don't know what coverage to select. Can anyone tell me if there are mechanical problem areas that are common with these cars? I'd appreciate any input, thanks!

example: a broken timing belt can destroy the hole engine (pistons, valves). All services are made on time?

sickchick

05-21-2005, 08:05 PM

I'ts a 99 JX with 74K miles. Bought it two months ago and it seems to be in great condition.
So I'm just wondering what I can expect to have to deal with in the next 25K miles or so. I've read that people here have had problems with electrical stuff, tranny, and of course the brakes. Any other lurking problems you all have dealt with? Water pump or timing belt maybe?
Also, my mechanic told me a major tune-up costs over $500 because everything's a pain to get at. Can that be right?

jwberger

05-23-2005, 04:16 PM

I used to run a garage, and I can probably help you with my perspective here.
I currently own a 96 Sebring convert. which I love. Problems with the car are limited to inoperative wipers, stiff heater control, and sticking seat recline mechanism.
I would not purchase an extended warranty myself, and - generally speaking - most people should avoid them IF the car is in basically good condition.
The mechanic who told you the tune-up is $500 because it is hard to work on is not incorrect. The rear spark plugs are the most difficult to change that I've ever seen. Therefore, I was lucky the previous owner put some brand-name platinum spark plugs in that will probably last 3 years.
Otherwise, find a good mechanic who is a good communicator and has Chrysler experience. Typically, a privately owned garage or dealership (chain franchise garages often have high staff turnover). You'll find one manager will be motivated to run an honest shop for long-term benefit, while others are pushing major repairs to ensure a great year-end bonus before they leave town.
Hope I've been of some help.
John

Macdaddy4738

05-23-2005, 04:19 PM

if you end up with a bad battery, save the cash and fix it yourself...its not as hard as it seems...

JUST DONT USE ANOTHER JACK!!!! Use the one that came stock with the car..using another jack at the same jacking point listed in the trunk really does a number on the car..

sickchick

05-24-2005, 04:54 PM

Thanks for the advice, I'll keep it all in mind!

win_daddy

05-30-2005, 06:52 PM

My wife has an '03 Sebring 2.4L Auto (30k miles). Recently started making noise in the front end, like brakes grinding only quieter and not changing with brake pedal or steering. Very noticeable over 50mph. Dealer said a front hub bearing is failing and ordered the part (it will be in next week). He said he hadn't seen that b4 EXCEPT that on the same day, our car was the second one in with the same problem! I'm not aware of any TSB's on this, but I'd watch the trend. You Listening, Chrysler?!?!?

wuzisname

12-13-2007, 03:16 PM

My 2 cents! If you didn't buy the car...RUN as far as you can from it, if your neighbor buys it... MOVE! But if you already own it then buy the warranty for EVERYTHING. This car will suck you dry with repair expenses. What can go wrong mechanically you ask. Again.. EVERYTHING!

sickchick

12-13-2007, 07:31 PM

My 2 cents! If you didn't buy the car...RUN as far as you can from it, if your neighbor buys it... MOVE! But if you already own it then buy the warranty for EVERYTHING. This car will suck you dry with repair expenses. What can go wrong mechanically you ask. Again.. EVERYTHING!

Wow...I've owned this car for two and a half years now and it's been great in every way. The only things I've had to replace are the windshield wiper switch, battery, and brakes. The roof doesn't even leak. It needs shocks soon but that's it. 97K miles now, and I drove over 1200 miles in the last two days and she ran like a charm.
I did buy an extended warranty that will end in 6 months. Now I kinda wish I'd never bought it because I haven't needed to use it once.
Now my Durango, that's another story...I love it but THAT'S what's sucking me dry. Still, I stand behind my mopars all the way.

DiplomatKing

12-18-2007, 11:08 PM

I bought my 97 Sebring LXI totaled from a local scrap yard and had it rebuilt into an R title. There is a long story of why I did this but I'll spare you the details. While the front clip was replaced with hood the majority of the parts under the metal are still original parts.

Besides the problem I'm currently having with my EGR valve I haven't put any major money into the car or had any significant down time in the 2 years I've had it back on the road. I've put around 40K miles on it in that time period too. A ton of highway driving here in PA where the Salt and pot holes in the winter are just totally unforgiving. Had to put in a ball joint assembly recently on the right side about a month ago, but again thats PA and our wondeful roads. I don't hold the car at fault for that.

I think my only gripe with the car is with the 17" alloy rims on the car there really are not many tire choices to go around which actually perform in the snow. I've also noticed in the Tire department if I don't replace all 4 at the same time the newest tires wear really fast. Then again it could just be the way I drive; I don't know.

Oldengineer

12-19-2007, 11:39 PM

I have an 05 Sebring sedan with the 2.7 and automatic. Since buying it new, I've put 68K on it. The following repairs have been made to it so far:
1. The transmission failed and had to be rebuilt.
2. The brakes and rotors had to be replaced. - due to warpage.
3. The front suspension had to be replaced (Factory recall).
4. The front strut towers had to be re-riveted - because they were loose and noisy - factory bulletin.
5. The air conditioner was pouring condensate on the floor of the vehicle, and, the drain system had to be modified per a factory bulletin.
6. The air filter housing on the engine broke and had to be replaced.

I suggest you cover everything you can with an extended warranty.

Regards:
Oldengineer

dna9656

09-06-2014, 09:13 PM

ANYTHING outside of changing the oil is a major pain in the ass. I have spent 3 months figuring out why the timing belt won't time. Now installing after market seat heaters. fining and connecting to a 20 amp switched circuit suitable for this purpose is why I am here. Apparently like the timing belt I am the ONLY guy that has internet access that has a Sebring with my issues.
I HATE THIS CAR.